The proposal lets the utility giant free itself from a legal obligation to provide landline service in areas with old technology. AT&T; says it affects about 10 percent of its customers and the plan would allow more investment in wireless and internet-based phone networks.

The Washington Times Comment Policy

The Washington Times is switching its third-party commenting system from Disqus to Spot.IM. You will need to either create an account with Spot.im or if you wish to use your Disqus account look under the Conversation for the link "Have a Disqus Account?". Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.